Local sports equipment shop

Players and parents, local clubs and leagues, and schools buying for teams.

Markup on gear sold, plus services like skate sharpening, stick or racquet work and team orders. Seasonal peaks around sign-up time.

• Knowing your chosen sports well
• Buying and stock control
• Friendly, patient customer service

• Commercial general liability insurance and cover for stock, check with a broker
• Municipal business licence and zoning for retail, check with your municipality
• GST/HST or provincial sales tax registration, check CRA and your province
• Stock tied up in off-season gear, plan for seasonal cash flow
• Competition from big chains and online stores, so focus on fitting and service
• Safety-certified gear such as helmets, check supplier guidance on what you can sell

Startup costs are typically around $25,000 to $100,000, depending on your premises, fit-out and opening stock. These are estimates, so get quotes for your own location and ranges before you commit.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $8,000 to $35,000, depending on your sports focus, location and service. Stock can get tied up in off-season gear, so plan for seasonal cash flow.

Check the municipal business licence and zoning for retail with your municipality. Also check GST/HST or provincial sales tax registration with the CRA and your province, and supplier guidance on safety-certified gear such as helmets.